Abington residents seek quieter MBTA trains

A Park Avenue couple is asking selectmen to look into the possibility of creating a “quiet zone” for MBTA commuter trains at railroad crossings.

“The air horn has been a continuous source of irritation to not only myself, but talking with many people living next to the line and especially those living in North Abington where there are multiple crossings, it is something we would like to go away,” William and Susan Gustin said in a letter to selectmen received April 11.

The Gustins said they have been in contact with the office of state Rep. Allen McCarthy to inquire about the town’s options, which include the creation of a quiet zone.

“I don’t think it is too much to ask for you to look into the possibility of making this a reality,” the Gustins wrote.

The Board of Selectmen, at its meeting on Monday, decided it would be best to receive community input on the town’s official Web site before moving ahead with a proposal.

Selectmen Chairman Robert E. Wing said he also thought it would be a good idea if the board held a public hearing, with members of the MBTA and state officials also present.

Selectman Kathy Lavin noted that the issue of a quiet zone had been broached with the MBTA, but no concrete action was ever taken.

The issues “do not seem to have been addressed by the T,” Lavin said.

Selectman Richard Cunningham pointed out the potential danger of a quiet zone, where children may not hear the sudden approach of a commuter train.

“Those trains come up so fast and if they are not blowing their horns, children won’t know they’re there,” said Cunningham, also raising the possibility of upgrading safety features at railroad crossings.

MBTA regulations require train operators to make two long blows and one short blow of the horn at a railroad crossing. There are five railroad crossings in North Abington.

Residents have in the past complained about the noise level of the horns. But “this is only the second letter I have seen asking for a quiet zone. Personally, I could live without the whistle,” Wing said.